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This Jerusalem salad recipe is a nutrient-packed Mediterranean meal featuring crispy homemade golden falafel, a medley of fresh raw veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
This dish has evolved over time and is beloved across the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, where fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and robust spices play a starring role.
Tzatziki is the unsung hero of many Mediterranean dishes. Its cool, creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a wonderful counterbalance to the robust spices in the falafel.
I still remember the first time I tasted an authentic Jerusalem salad during a visit to a quaint Mediterranean bistro.
The vibrant colors, the aromatic blend of herbs, and the crisp texture of each bite left an unforgettable impression on me.
It wasn’t long before I decided to recreate this culinary masterpiece in my own kitchen, adjusting it to suit modern tastes while preserving the original charm.
As a chef, I often find that the soul of a dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures. This Jerusalem salad recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be elevated with thoughtful preparation.
Today, I’m thrilled to share this salad recipe with you, along with personal tips, insights, and variations that allow you to tailor the dish to your palate.
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Jerusalem Salad with Tzatziki & Falafel
Here are the key ingredients for making the Jerusalem salad recipe with falafel:
- Mixed Greens & Crisp Veggies: The base of the Jerusalem salad is built with an assortment of fresh greens like romaine or mixed baby lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and red bell peppers.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint add brightness and aromatic notes that are central to the dish’s Mediterranean character. They not only elevate the visual appeal but also provide a burst of flavor that ties the ingredients together.
- Chickpeas: The star protein in falafel is dried chickpeas (avoid canned chickpeas). Their nutty flavor and hearty texture form the foundation of the falafel mixture, making it a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Aromatic Spices: Blended with garlic, onions, ground cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne pepper, these spices bring warmth and complexity to the falafel. They create layers of flavor that resonate with the Mediterranean palate.
- Greek Yogurt: The creamy base for the tzatziki is Greek yogurt, prized for its thick texture and tangy flavor.
- Fresh Dill (or Mint): Dill is traditionally used in tzatziki, offering a cooling, aromatic quality that perfectly balances the creaminess of the yogurt and the sharpness of the garlic.
- Olive Oil: A simple blend of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for mixing the salad and frying the falafel patties if not baking.
- Herbs & Seasonings: Fresh parsley and mint add brightness and aromatic notes that are central to the dish’s Mediterranean character. A touch of garlic and dried oregano (or za’atar) rounds out the dressing.
Equipment Needed to Make Jerusalem Salad
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- Food Processor: A high-powered food processor is essential for blending the chickpeas, herbs, and spices into the perfect falafel mixture. It helps achieve the right consistency while retaining some texture.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few large mixing bowls for tossing the salad, mixing the tzatziki sauce, and combining the falafel ingredients. Clear, wide bowls help you see all the vibrant colors of the vegetables.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: If you choose to shallow fry the falafel, a heavy skillet or non-stick frying pan is ideal. It ensures even heat distribution for a crispy, golden-brown finish.
- Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: For those who prefer baking the falafel for a healthier twist, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps achieve a consistent crisp without excessive oil.
- Grater & Cheesecloth/Towel: Grating the cucumber finely is crucial for the tzatziki. A clean cheesecloth or kitchen towel is used to squeeze out excess moisture, keeping the sauce thick and flavorful.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knives: Chopping fresh vegetables and herbs efficiently requires a sturdy cutting board and sharp knives. This equipment ensures clean cuts and retains the integrity of the ingredients.
- Whisk or Jar with Lid: A whisk or a small jar with a lid is perfect for mixing the salad dressing. This helps in evenly distributing the herbs, garlic, and lemon juice throughout the olive oil.
Nutritional Benefits of Jerusalem Salad
This Mediterranean salad is a nutrient-dense meal with many health benefits:
- High in Fiber: With a generous helping of fresh vegetables and chickpeas, this dish is rich in dietary fiber. Fiber aids digestion, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
- Plant-Based Protein: The chickpeas in falafel provide a hearty dose of protein, making this falafel salad recipe a great option for vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The inclusion of extra-virgin olive oil not only adds a wonderful flavor but also provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help reduce inflammation.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants like lycopene, which has been shown to help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and trigger inflammation.
- Vitamin A: Found in leafy greens, it supports eye health, immune function, and skin health.
- Vitamin C: Present in tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, aids in collagen production, and boosts your immune system.
- Vitamin K: Abundant in green leafy vegetables, it’s crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
- B Vitamins: The falafel and chickpeas provide B vitamins, which play an important role in energy metabolism and brain function.
- Rich in Essential Minerals: Tomatoes and cucumbers provide potassium for heart health and blood pressure regulation. Greek yogurt adds calcium for strong bones, while chickpeas supply iron to support oxygen transport and prevent fatigue.
- Low in Processed Sugars: As a dish primarily made from whole, natural ingredients, it’s low in processed sugars. This makes it a balanced option that supports steady energy levels throughout the day.
- Gluten-Free and Diabetic Friendly: The Jerusalem salad recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for diabetic-friendly diets, as it balances complex carbohydrates with fiber and protein, helping to moderate blood sugar spikes.
What to Serve or Pair With Jerusalem Salad
Here are the perfect accompaniments for a well-rounded meal:
- Warm Pita Bread or Flatbread: The soft, warm texture of pita bread makes it an excellent vehicle for scooping up the falafel and tzatziki, while also providing a complementary contrast to the crisp salad.
- Hummus: A classic Mediterranean dip, hummus pairs beautifully with this salad. Its creamy texture and rich flavor offer an additional layer of satisfaction, perfect for dipping both falafel and vegetables.
- Grain-Based Sides: Consider serving a side of quinoa, bulgur, or couscous to create a more filling meal. These grains add substance and make the dish even more nutritious.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adding a side of pickled vegetables, such as turnips or cucumbers, brings an extra tangy zest that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a heartier variation, a serving of roasted eggplant or zucchini can add warmth and depth to the meal, balancing the freshness of the salad.
- A Fresh Light Soup: A bowl of lentil or tomato soup can complement the meal, offering a comforting start or a wholesome accompaniment to the main course.
- A Refreshing Beverage: Serve with a glass of freshly squeezed lemon basil mocktail, iced tea, or a light, crisp white wine (for an adult pairing). These drinks help cleanse the palate and accentuate the Mediterranean flavors.
Quick Tips for Making the Perfect Jerusalem Salad
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh, high-quality vegetables and herbs for the best flavor. The brightness of the salad truly depends on the quality of your produce.
- Consistency Matters: Ensure the falafel mixture is well blended. It should hold together when formed into patties without being too smooth.
- Oil Choices: Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended not just for its flavor but also for its health benefits.
- Tzatziki Variations: If you’re aiming for a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a thick plant-based alternative (like coconut or almond yogurt). Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Cooking Methods: For a healthier twist, baking the falafel is a great alternative to shallow frying, yielding a deliciously crispy texture without excessive oil.
- Make-Ahead: Both the falafel and tzatziki can be prepared in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
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The magic of this recipe lies in texture contrast, crispy falafel against the juicy salad and cool tzatziki. Soaking dried chickpeas (not canned) ensures falafel holds shape.
As you prepare this salad, take a moment to appreciate the art of Middle Eastern street food culture and tradition, where every bite tells a story of heritage, community, and the joy of sharing food.
Enjoy the compliments as your family and friends rave about the unique blend of flavors, and feel free to tweak the recipe to make it your own.
Happy cooking!
Crispy Jerusalem Salad with Tzatziki and Falafel
Description
This Jerusalem salad recipe is a vibrant, nutrient-packed Mediterranean meal featuring crispy homemade falafel, a rainbow of fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
For the Jerusalem Salad Base
For the Falafel
For the Tzatziki Sauce
For the Jerusalem Salad Dressing
Garnishes (Optional)
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Falafel
Soak the Chickpeas
- Place 1½ cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water.
- Allow them to soak overnight (at least 12 hours).
- Drain and rinse thoroughly the next day.
Blend the Ingredients
- In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse until the mixture reaches a coarse, grainy texture (not pureed).
Bind the Ingredients
- Add chickpea flour and baking powder, pulse again
- If the mixture feels too dry, add 3 tablespoons of water gradually until it holds together.
- The texture should be fine enough to form patties but still retain some texture for a bit of crunch.
Form the Falafel Patties
- Using your hands or a small falafel scoop, form the mixture into small, slightly flattened patties (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, slightly flatten each patty.
Cooking the Falafel
Option A: Shallow Frying
- Heat about ¼ inch of olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
- Once hot, add the falafel patties in batches and fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Option B: Baking (Healthier Alternative)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place falafel patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly brush or spray the patties with olive oil.
- Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp on the outside and cooked through.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
Grate and Squeeze the Cucumber
- Finely grate one cucumber and sprinkle with salt
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Then squeeze out the excess water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- This step is crucial to prevent the tzatziki from becoming too watery.
Mix the Tzatziki Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Assemble the Jerusalem Salad
Prepare the Salad Base
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine (or mixed greens), diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, parsley, mint, and red bell pepper.
- Toss gently to mix all the vegetables evenly.
Make the Jerusalem Salad Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano or za’atar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- For an extra zing, allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.
Plate and Garnish
- Spoon a generous amount of the dressed salad into serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with 2 to 3 falafel patties (or as desired), then drizzle with the tzatziki sauce.
- Optionally, garnish with crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, or a light sprinkle of sumac for that extra Mediterranean flair.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 large salad bowl
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 450mg19%
- Potassium 550mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 10g40%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 15g30%
- Vitamin A 750 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Calcium 80 mg
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For extra crispy falafel, refrigerate the mix for 30 minutes before frying.
- Do not use canned chickpeas, as the texture will not be ideal for falafel, they’ll be too mushy.
- Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Ensure the falafel mixture is well blended. It should hold together when formed into patties without being too smooth.
- Prep falafel mix and tzatziki a day before.
